Gather Operations on the Pryor Mountain Horse Range Aim to Prevent Horse Suffering and Restore Healthy Range Conditions

BILLINGS, Mont. - Wild horses in the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range are facing growing pressure from limited forage and water, and a bait-trap gather is set to begin on or about Oct. 19. Herd numbers have exceeded what the land can support, increasing the risk of hunger, dehydration, and injury.

The most recent population estimate in the Pryor Mountains Range is about 185 wild horses. The area can only support approximately 107 to 120 animals based on available forage and water. Current overpopulation is contributing to deteriorating upland health, riparian/wetland health, and habitat for native plants and animals, primarily because the herd size has been above what the land can support for most of the past 50 years.

The Bureau of Land Management plans to gather approximately 100 horses and remove up to 37 for placement into private care. Removed animals will receive health evaluations, vaccinations, and care at BLM facilities before they are made available for adoption or sale.

The gather will be conducted using a temporary corral containing bait and water to safely attract the animals. Once horses voluntarily enter the corral, staff secure the gate to complete the gather. Animal safety is a top priority. All BLM and contractor staff are trained in humane handling techniques specifically designed for wild horses and burros. Learn more about the BLM's Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program.

Mares that are gathered and not being removed will be treated with fertility control before being released back to the range to help slow future herd growth.

The BLM also monitors the genetic health of the Pryor Mountain herd to ensure it stays within healthy ranges. Recent analyses show the herd's level of genetic variety is above the minimum level BLM uses to flag potential concerns, and also above what is seen in many other wild horse herds. Independent scientists with the U.S. Geological Survey have modeled future scenarios and found that, under the current management plan, the herd is very likely to maintain acceptable genetic diversity over time. During gather operations, the BLM collects hair or DNA samples to continue tracking these trends and ensure the herd remains healthy into the future.

Because wild horses may avoid the trap site if there is too much activity, only essential personnel will be allowed near the corral. A temporary public-access closure is in place.

Planning documents, including the environmental assessment, decision record, and finding of no significant impact, are available at the BLM National NEPA Register. Daily gather updates will be posted to 2026 Pryor Mountains Wild Horse Gather.

The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971 charges the BLM with managing wild horses and burros on public lands. Federal law prohibits the commercial slaughter of these animals, and the BLM does not sell or send wild horses or burros to slaughter. The agency enforces adoption and sale requirements, strengthened the bill of sale language, and works closely with law enforcement whenever credible information suggests a violation may have occurred.

This commitment to humane care is central to the BLM's mission and guides every action we take to ensure wild horses and burros remain responsibly managed for generations to come. Learn more about the Wild Horse and Burro Program and how qualified adopters can bring home an American living legend.